As Family Weekend approaches in Happy Valley, parents and families will soon descend on Penn State to visit their loved ones and make the most of much-needed time together.

Thankfully, Penn State will offer plenty of activities around campus, letting families enjoy the weekend and spend time with their children.

Family Weekend officially begins on Friday with events sadly coming to a close on Sunday before parents and family members are forced back into the real world.

Here’s a list of all the events Penn State has to offer for this love-filled weekend.

Friday, October 16

Lion Chariot Pedicab Campus Tours  

Where: HUB-Robeson Center

When: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The Lion Chariot pedicab is one of the most fun and interactive tours on campus. The one-hour tour takes folks to places on campus you may never walk past and teaches you the history of Penn State’s famous buildings.

Tours cost $100 and typically fit two to three people in each pedicab. Reservations are required and require a $25 deposit. Contact vamoslion.com for more information. 

Women’s Hockey vs. Lindenwood 

Where: Pegula Ice Arena

When: 2 p.m. 

Penn State women’s hockey will be taking on Lindenwood at Pegula Ice Arena. Admission is free for all. Stop by to see the hyped-up student section and join the fun! 

Family Weekend Ice Cream Social  

Where: HUB-Robeson Center, Alumni Hall 

When: 4 to 6 p.m.

Before the night ends, stop by the HUB to enjoy the complimentary famous Berkey Creamery ice cream.

Meet other Penn State families and watch student groups perform their hearts out. 

Blue Band Building Open House

Where: O. Richard Bundy Blue Band Building

When: 6:30 to 9 p.m.

Ever wanted to experience what it’s like to be part of the Blue Band? Well, here’s your chance, folks.

The Blue Band is hosting an open house to walk you through its gameday routine, rehearsal spaces, and 127-year history of building on the legacy. 

Saturday, October 17

Parents & Families Welcome Breakfast Reception  

Where: HUB-Robeson Center, Alumni Hall

When: 9 to 9:45 a.m. 

This continental breakfast welcomes all parents and families to the weekend. It is a great way to officially start off the packed weekend schedule and meet other Penn State families. 

Penn State’s Pumpkin Festival

Where: H.O. Smith Botanic Garden in the Arboretum 

When: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

This annual pumpkin festival is the perfect way to explore the Arboretum. Local food vendors, crafts, and activities for all ages will be available. The festival will also host the annual pumpkin carving contest. 

Football vs. Michigan Family Weekend Watch Party 

Where: HUB-Robeson Center (Alumni Hall, Heritage Hall, Freeman Auditorium) 

When: 3 to 6 p.m.

Don’t miss out on a Penn State football game! Go to the HUB, wear blue and white, and get ready to chant “We Are.”

The watch party will be in three different rooms in the HUB, with refreshments and family games during breaks and halftime.  

Nittany Lion Goosechase Race 

Where: Goosechase app

When: 10 a.m.

Penn State is hosting its fourth annual Nittany Lion Goosechase Race, a 24-hour interactive scavenger hunt where folks can create a team with family and friends.

The first 40 teams win prizes, as long as you find the clues quickly. Download the Goosechase app and enter the code: P4CMFY.

School Of Theatre: ‘Sister Act‘ 

Where: James P. and AJ Jimirro Playhouse Theatre

When: 7:30 to 10:30 p.m.

The feel-good musical comedy “Sister Act” is a smash hit based on the 1992 film. This musical was nominated for five Tony Awards, including Best Musical. Folks can purchase tickets online.

Sunday, October 18

Climb The Old Main Bell Tower 

Where: Old Main

When: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. 

Visit the famous Old Main bell tower and learn about its beauty, history, and traditions.

The bell tower can only hold 15 guests at a time, so there may be a wait outside. Registration is required, but the event is free. Walk-ups may be available based on availability.

Penn State Hillel Family Bagel Brunch  

Where: Gutterman Family Center

When: 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Penn State Hillel is hosting a bagel brunch where folks can enjoy fresh bagels and brunch items while getting to know other Penn State families.

Family members must check in before entering, and adults must have ID. 

Field Hockey vs. Michigan 

Where: Field Hockey Complex

When: noon

Penn State field hockey is taking on Michigan. Admission is free for all, and players will do postgame autographs!